Widnes and former NRL star Rangi Chase banned after cocaine test

New Zealand-born stand-off Rangi Chase has been suspended indefinitely after testing positive for cocaine, his Super League club Widnes have announced.

The former England international, 31, failed a drugs test after playing for Widnes in their 36-8 home defeat by Wakefield on July 14.

"Widnes Vikings received notification from UK Anti-Doping and the Rugby Football League today that Rangi Chase tested positively for cocaine in a drugs test, following the recent fixture against Wakefield Trinity," Widnes said in a statement released on Thursday.

"As a consequence, under Rugby Football League anti-doping regulations, he has been suspended from all training and playing activity.

"The club fully respects this suspension and are currently reviewing this matter. There will be no further comment at this time."